Stem cells are the foundation cells for every organ and tissue in our bodies. The highly specialized cells that make up these tissues originally came from an initial pool of stem cells formed shortly after fertilization. Throughout our lives, we continue to rely on stem cells to replace injured tissues and cells that are lost every day, such as those in our skin, hair, blood and the lining of our gut. (Source: ISSCR)

Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have not yet “decided” what type of adult cell they will be.

They can self-renew and make two new stem cells

They can differentiate to make multiple types of cells

They ultimately amplify by expanding the number of differentiated & mature cells

What do people often not realize about Stem Cells?

Stem Cells are NOT new to science

Their definition is relatively simple and encompasses a wider range of cells than simply embryonic.

Stem Cells are important in tissue homeostasis (maintenance), repair, and regeneration

Some Stem Cells (adult) are clinically useful NOW

Other Stem Cells (ESC, iPS) MAY be clinically useful someday and already are useful in basic research

All Stem Cell types are important in research

There are both ethical and political issues with the use of some types of stem cells. UNMC continues to work closely with federal and state legislature as well as the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) to promote responsible, transparent, and uniform practices that conform to both federal and state guidelines.